bicyclinginfo.org  :  part of the pedestrian and bicycle information center
sitemap about us -> goes to pbic website links join email list ask us a question
  search     go to walkinginfo.org
outreach and promotion news bicycling crashes policy and planning rails and trails research and development transit image libraryinsight health and fitness education and enforcement design and engineering community problems and solutions
 
policy & planning home

overview


benefits of bicycling
: health benefits
: transportation benefits
: environmental benefits
: economic benefits
: quality of life benefits
: resources

funding sources
predicting demand
types of planning activities
public involvement
policies
exemplary plans
exemplary plans
resources


Benefits of Bicycling : Economic Benefits

Bicycling and walking are affordable forms of transportation. When safe facilities are provided for pedestrians and bicyclists, more people are able to be productive, active members of society. Car ownership is expensive, and consumes a major portion of many Americans’ income.


Money Facts:
    • The cost of operating a car for one year is approximately $5,170 (AAA Mid-Atlantic)

    • The cost of operating a bicycle for a year is only $120 (League of American Bicyclists).

    • The average family has to work for more than 6 weeks to pay a year’s car expenses, compared to less than one day needed to pay for a year’s bicycle expenses. (based on U.S. Census, 1998 median family income figures)

    • Walking is
    free!